WASHINGTON - Worldwide semiconductor sales reached a record $54.9 billion in February, a 17.1% increase from $46.9 billion a year ago, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association. Sales slipped 2.9% from January’s $56.5 billion, the trade group added.

“Despite a slight decline in month-to-month sales, the global semiconductor industry hit its highest-ever monthly sales total for the month of February, driving strong year-to-year growth,” said John Neuffer, president and CEO, SIA. “Year-to-year sales increased by more than 17% for the 10th consecutive month, driven by a year-to-year sales increase of nearly 50% in the Americas.”

The Americas led growth with a 48.4% year-on-year increase, while other regions including Asia Pacific, China, and Japan also saw gains. Europe recorded an 8.1% decline. The monthly decrease in February sales affected all major markets, with the Americas falling the most at 4.6%.

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